For the first time since the award was created, The Marita Romine Distinguished Service Award has gone to a team: Ellen Lindsey (Office Manager, CWL and Religion), Dee Ann Bates (OM Linguistics), Katie Walker (Spanish and  SLATE) and Jessica Smith (Classics, Translation and Interpreting Studies and Medieval Studies).

The nominations stated:

"In a time of unprecedented turnover and transition (Fall 2019) and then during an international health crisis that changed the way we work (Spring 2020) Dee Ann, Ellen, Katie and Jessica maintained magnificent, supportive attitudes in their interaction with students, faculty, and other staff. They were a model of collaboration, teamwork and cohesiveness. They showed commitment to professional development as well as to the development and recognition of others. We therefore wanted to recognize their professionalism, empathy, and their ability to carry on the vital tasks related to their responsibilities, especially during a time of crisis."

It is also worth mentioning that during the Fall semester, the recognized team worked under the supervision of Marita Romine herself, with whom they have developed a strong bond. Marita, most of the School's staff, the Executive Officers of departments and the Executive committee members were part of the virtual recognition ceremony.